Guest Post: 6 Quick Tips for RV Beginners

There is a certain freedom to be had from not being tethered to a single residence at all times. Being nomadic is now an option where an entire world of new possibilities in terms of distance coverage and comforts have been made opened, explored and commercialised. Having an RV for the first time does come with its own learning curve so here are some suggestions to the first time camper.

Visit an RV Show

The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association is comprised of RV parts manufacturers and suppliers who host conferences all over the United States. The aim of an RV show is to introduce members to the federally required safety standards as well as deliver an overall education to potential and new RV owners while refreshing and updating the veterans. Attending one of these conferences put a newbie through the paces of operating an RV and it will prepare them for the changes what comes with life on the open road.

Pack Light and Based On a List

The vehicle already has a lot of weight to haul around in order to make it livable. Carrying too many personal effects will eventually add too much weight causing unnecessary wear on the vehicle. Another problem that can arise from over packing is clutter; this clutter can become deadly missiles as the RV rolls into motion. A few key pieces to remember are an emergency kit, a few bottles of water and medication, pack clothes based on your transit route and intended destination. Finally, do a dry run in the driveway to ensure things go smoothly while on the road.

Use a Map and Plan Ahead

Depending on the size of the RV, there are roads where it may be illegal to travel on without a permit or an escort. Additionally there are height restrictions which may cause accidents and damage the infrastructure or the vehicle if ignored. Even if the trip is being planned on the fly, still have a map, GPS and local information on which routes are safe for you and the general public.

Practice Driving

Moving from a car to an RV requires some getting used to. Some machines have different control mechanisms essential to having a safe trip. For the Class A and C homes, there is a huge size difference. This impacts how corners are maneuvered, how easy it will be to park and what streets can be safely traversed.

Have A Few Tools to Fix Issues on the Road

Generally it is wise to always have a few tools while driving. This is especially true when operating an RV. A few ideal tools are: pliers, an adjustable wrench, an extra hose, wooden levelling blocks, a hammer and two or three sizes and types of screwdrivers.

Have the Vehicle Serviced or Checked Before Leaving Home

Another generally good driving tip, applies doubly to RV operators. While the mechanical bits are important, remember to have the internal systems checked as well. This money saving tip will ensure overheads are kept low while on the move.

2 Comments

Thanks for the tips! It is a dream of mine to drive across the US in an RV. Do you have to have a special license to drive one? And if so, how difficult is it to obtain said license?

Sean

May 15, 2017 / 8:54 pm

you might have to have CDL license but im not sure. would ask your state driving department.

Vicky & Chris

Thanks for joining us (Vicky & Chris, a married couple from Yorkshire, England) as we Eat, Sleep, Love and Travel our way around the world! Between us, we have been to 75 countries (long may the list grow!)

We have been travelling together since January 2007 when we took our first trip only two weeks from our first meeting to Florence, Italy.